Forests provide numerous natural resources for the industry but
they are not seen as the source of revenue but rather the source
of livelihood of the common populace. The idea is to harness the
forest produce in a sustainable manner and find alternatives
wherever possible.

Plywood, veneer, pulp and paper, safety match box making etc
are the main forest based industries in the state of Assam. In
fact, Plywood industry is one of the major industries after tea
and petroleum. The State forest is the source of raw materials
for the above industries. Timber, bamboo, cane etc are the main
useful products from the forests of Assam. For instance, Cane
furniture of Assam was world famous but due to serious over
exploitation it has become almost extinct. Assam has become a
net importer of cane from an erstwhile exporter. Thus the main
emphasis today is to meet the needs of people from alternative
resources and revive forest based industries on sustainable
models. This requires mass participation. Agar-wood, for example
can provide rich dividends, if people can grow it as a crop.

Licensed Wood based Industries under Territorial Divisions during
2006-07